1. “When Israel was a child, I loved him,and I called my son out of Egypt.
2. But the more I called to him,the farther he moved from me,offering sacrifices to the images of Baaland burning incense to idols.
3. I myself taught Israel how to walk,leading him along by the hand.But he doesn’t know or even carethat it was I who took care of him.
4. I led Israel alongwith my ropes of kindness and love.I lifted the yoke from his neck,and I myself stooped to feed him.
5. “But since my people refuse to return to me,they will return to Egyptand will be forced to serve Assyria.